Top Spin 4: A New Spin on an Old Classic

Share.

Has tennis's best simulation just got better?

By Martin Robinson

"Insert Coin," Pong's cabinet famously instructed, "Avoid Missing Ball for High Score." Video games' most famous take on tennis was also perhaps its most simple – but its latest just goes to show how far we've come in such a short time. Underpinning 2K's Top Spin 4 is an intricate system of volleys, lobs and slices that helps make this one of the most exacting tennis simulations to date, and it's as complex and deep as the most hardcore of fighting games.

Which is fitting, because it's the likes of Street Fighter IV and Tekken that have provided developer 2K Czech's biggest inspiration. No, you won't be pulling off quarter-circles to smash the ball, but you will be witness to match-ups with the same level of strategic cunning and super-human skill that top-tier fighters display.

Pitting Andy Roddick against Michael Chang in a two-player match sees this approach borne out. Roddick's all raw, grunting power, delivering consistent killer punches from the baseline while Chang darts furiously about, sucking in each blow and then patiently returning each ball with delicate care. It plays out this way for a tense and extended rally until Roddick seemingly cracks, his aggression getting the better of him as he sends a ball waywards and beyond the sidelines. Like a match-up between Zangief and Chun-li, it's brute power versus wit and agility.

Chang-a-lang playing between the white lines.

And just like Street Fighter its depth is hidden beneath a game that's deliciously approachable. Top Spin 3 couldn't be faulted for its realism, but it certainly could have done a better job at making its authenticity available for all; Top Spin 4 bears this in mind and ensures that beginner players won't be peppering the stands with errant balls. The learning curve's been smoothed and optional in-game prompts give more immediate feedback to let the player know where they may be going wrong. There's a first bounce indicator, a fatigue gauge and a timing helper that tells you how sweetly you've hit the ball, all working together to make upping your game that much easier.

Other features return from previous Top Spins with a sprinkle of tweaks and flourishes. There's a renewed focus on its career mode, where once again players take their characters through the ranks while defining their style on court. Experience points are gained both offline and on, and employing different coaches has an impact on a player's attributes. Some coaches will boost a player's serve and volley game while they're in their employ, while others will bring something to your baseline game. They can be swapped in and out with ease, enabling players to switch their style as the situation dictates.

It all adds up to a smart addition to the Top Spin series, keeping the vaunted realism intact while bringing with it some welcome new ideas – and it's a long way from Pong. We'll be bringing you the full review before Top Spin 4 launches towards the end of March.